Remotely controlled high voltage capacitor charging

High voltage capacitor charging systems are often used in environments where it is not desirable to have personnel within close proximity to the energy storage devices, nor the charging system itself. This can present difficulties or logistical inconveniences when charge parameters need to be modified or system adjustments need to be performed. In the design of capacitor charging power supplies, much effort is often spent in the areas of energy density, cooling, stability, efficiency and other operational parameters. However when it comes to the actual operation of the system users are often presented with a very basic user interface, or left to design their own remote control interface. Recent advances in programmable automation controllers along with the wide acceptance and market saturation of the Ethernet standard for personal computer data connections has made possible a design for an Ethernet-based remote control system for capacitor charging power supplies. The new system can, in most cases, also work with existing installations. The control system solves several challenges with high voltage charging systems and at the same time offers additional capabilities to existing systems via a programmable, customizable user interface. Issues such as relatively imprecise voltage settings via a front panel knob are solved via precise keyboard input of desired charge voltage. Operation and control can be performed alongside of the system, or via a Secure connection in a remote room, or if desired, anywhere an internet connection is possible. Control may be initiated via secure, private local area network, or in an open system accessible to a range of people. New features such as data logging or modified charge profiles may be added via software and graphical user interface (GUI) modifications. This paper describes the design and operation of a remotely controlled high voltage capacitor charging system, its advantages over existing designs, and how its use can improve an- - d facilitate R&D efforts for pulsed power systems.